Discover the many wonders of Peru including the official New World Wonder from the spectacular Inca citadel of Machu Picchu to the fortresses and temples of the Sacred Valley.Plan your tailor-made holiday

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Journey Across South America 2020 - 19 Days

Cross the width of South America from the Pacific to the Atlantic coast on this 19 day group tour from Lima to Rio de Janeiro. Marvel at legendary Machu Picchu, cruise to the islands of Lake Titicaca and ride to the summit of Corcovado Mountain. Browse the famous Witches Market in La Paz and admire the thundering Iguazu Falls.

Not Included

Itinerary

Wednesday. Welcome to Peru and the beginning of our South American adventure! On arrival at the airport in Lima you’ll be transferred to our hotel in the city where the rest of the day is free to relax or independently explore.Overnight: Lima

Lima - Cusco. This morning we enjoy a walking tour of the colonial centre of Lima. Known as the “City of Kings”, Lima was formerly the heart of Spanish America and remnants of this glorious past can still be seen in the grand colonial churches and splendid wooden balconies of the city centre. After the tour we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cusco. Take some time to adjust to the altitude in this remarkable Andean city.Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast

Today we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Cusco, taking in several important Inca ruins. Visit Q’oricancha, which was once the most important Inca Sun Temple. We also explore the Plaza de Armas and the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman, sitting on a hillside above the city. Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast

Cusco - Sacred Valley. Explore the Sacred Valley today, beginning at the impressive Pisac ruins. This ancient Inca citadel is popular with visitors and sits high above Pisac village on the hillside. After our visit we continue to the bustling Pisac markets where you can barter with the local merchants for souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. This afternoon we continue to the famous and well preserved Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, which once guarded the valley from invasions by nearby jungle tribes. Overnight: The Sacred Valley | Breakfast

Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu. Say goodbye to the Sacred Valley as we enjoy a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes this morning. On arrival we take a short bus journey up the mountain to the magnificent “Lost City” of Machu Picchu. Abandoned by the Incas and never found by the conquering Spanish, Machu Picchu lay hidden until its rediscovery in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. Enjoy a guided tour of the stunning site, including the Main Plaza and the famous Sacred Sun Dial. After our tour we return to Aguas Calientes for the evening.

Fancy hiking some of the Inca Trail without interrupting your tour? We can arrange for you to walk the mini Inca Trail today whilst still enjoying a guided tour of the ruins and staying with the group this evening. Please ask us for more details.
Overnight: Aguas Calientes | Breakfast

Day 6

Option to revisit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu - Cusco. There is time today to revisit the ancient citadel if you choose or perhaps explore some of the main trails around the site. Hike up the steep path to Huayna Picchu for incredible views over Machu Picchu or trek to the Inca Bridge, carved into the steep cliff face. Alternatively, you can relax at the hotel before we return to Cusco by train this afternoon.

Please note: Those wanting to book the trails need to enquire with the office and pre-book as availability is limited.
Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast

Today is free to relax or explore Cusco as you please. There are several optional excursions in the surrounding region, which you may wish to join. Perhaps visit the town of Moray, located about an hour from Cusco. The town is home to spectacular Incan irrigation paths, which form circular depressions in the ground. From here it’s a short walk to Maras, a town famous for its terraced salt pans high in the mountains.Overnight: Cusco | Breakfast

Cusco - Puno. Today we enjoy a scenic drive from Cusco to Puno, on the shore of the majestic Lake Titicaca. Climb through fertile fields of corn and potatoes to the pass at La Raya (4,200m) and then continue across the striking Altiplano, a large and windswept plain dotted with market towns and herds of llamas. We arrive into Puno early this evening. Overnight: Puno | Breakfast

Puno - Copacabana (Bolivia). This morning we enjoy a motorboat cruise on Lake Titicaca to the famous Uros Islands. The Uros people build these islands entirely from tortora reeds, which grow around the lake. They also use them in the construction of their boats and houses. Meet the islanders and perhaps purchase some of their handicrafts before we say goodbye to Peru and cross into Bolivia and Copacabana.

The pretty town of Copacabana is a religious sanctuary and is home to an iconic whitewashed Basilica, frequented by pilgrims who bring flowers and other gifts to be blessed by the 16th century Dark Virgin of the Lake. We see this site and there is also free time if you wish to climb into the hills for incredible views over Lake Titicaca.
Overnight: Copacabana | Breakfast

Day 10

Boat trip to Sun Island

Copacabana - La Paz. Explore the Isla del Sol (Sun Island) today as we return to the waters of Lake Titicaca on a boat ride. According to legend, this spot marked the beginning of Inca civilization, when children of the sun god sprung from the depths of the lake.

Later, leave Copacabana and travel across the Altiplano to La Paz, one of the highest cities in the world at over 3,500 metres. The evening is free to relax or begin to discover the city independently, under the gaze of the colossal snow-capped Mount Illimani.
Overnight: La Paz | Breakfast

Days 11-12

La Paz sightseeing

On the first of our two full days in La Paz we enjoy a guided tour of the city. Discover highlights including the Government Palace and the Cathedral. Continue to the famous Witches Market, brimming with potions, amulets and ritual offerings. We take a ride on public buses to get a real feel for the city and then ride above La Paz with wonderful aerial views from the Telefericos (cable cars), which zig zag the city. We ride up to El Alto for magnificent views of our surroundings.

Day 12 is at leisure in the city or there is an optional visit to the ruins of Tiwanaku, some of South America’s most important pre-Colombian ruins. Explore the site and learn more about the ruins in the museum, home to more than 100 different artifacts.Overnight: La Paz | Breakfast x 2

Day 13

Asuncion

La Paz - Asuncion (Paraguay). We leave Bolivia today and fly to Asuncion, the capital city of Paraguay. Nestled on the banks of the Rio Paraguay River, this old world city feels trapped in history - a legacy of its years in isolation from the outside world under a series of dictators. The city is finally beginning to emerge and the contrast between the old and the new is striking. This afternoon is free to explore the vibrant city as you please. You may wish to stroll down the tree lined avenues, browse the dubious electrical goods on offer at the markets or relax with a beer in the 1950s Lido Bar. Overnight: Asuncion | Breakfast

Asuncion - Puerto Iguazu (Argentina). Today we drive to Puerto Iguazu, gateway to the mighty Iguazu Falls at the border between Argentina and Brazil. The first evening is at leisure in the city before we explore the Argentinean side of the falls on day 15. Setting off into the lush rainforest from the National Park Visitor Centre, we take a natural-gas powered train to Cataratas Station, where our walk begins. Pass dozens of tiny basalt islands and cross over some of the many streams that feed the falls. We then continue on the train to The Devil’s Throat, where the fourteen falls drop away over the cliff in a thunderous, foaming torrent. A permanent spray is thrown up by the water as it crashes onto the rocks below.

There is an optional boat trip at the base of the falls, which takes you to within touching distance of this incredible natural feature - prepare to get wet!
Overnight: Puerto Iguazu | Breakfast x 2

Puerto Iguazu - Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). This morning we explore the Brazilian side of the falls and enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the full sweep of the cascades. We then transfer to the airport and fly to Rio de Janeiro. There is an included transfer to our hotel, which is located near the famous Copacabana Beach. You may wish to take a stroll on the beach as you enjoy the rest of today at leisure.Overnight: Rio De Janeiro | Breakfast

Enjoy a guided tour of this famous city today, where glamorous apartments and sandy beaches are set against the favelas and shanty towns clinging to the hillside. Our tour visits highlights of the city and includes a ride on the cable car up to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. From this incredible vantage point you can enjoy views of the sprawling city, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and mountains on the other. There's a lovely nature walk around the foot of the mountain, or perhaps go for a drink in the nearby neighbourhood of Urca, the leafy home to Rio’s rich and famous.Overnight: Rio De Janeiro | Breakfast

Our final day of sightseeing begins with a ride on the steep rack-and-pinion railway through Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world and all that remains of the rainforest that once surrounded the city. We reach the summit of Corcovado Mountain and marvel at the iconic 40 metre Christ the Redeemer statue, which overlooks the city. On a clear day, the views from this point over the city and the ocean are unrivalled.

The rest of today is at leisure. You may wish to visit the peaceful hill-top neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, away from the bustle of the city. Alternatively, there is an optional excursion along the Avenue of the Royal Palms. Keep an eye open for the colourful toucans and marmosets that frequent the park.
Overnight: Rio De Janeiro | Breakfast

Sunday. Our South American adventure comes to an end today with an included departure transfer to the airport. If you’d like to extend your stay in Rio de Janeiro, then we can arrange this for you.Breakfast

Prices & Dates

Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies to travellers who would like the comfort of their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged, thus avoiding the single person supplement.

Hotel El Tambo Peru, Lima

Situated in the attractive Miraflores district is the El Tambo Hotel, within walking distance of the beach and the Miraflores main square. The bright guestrooms offer views of the city or the hotel gardens and is feature a TV and safe. You can dine in the on-site restaurant which specialises in Peruvian delicacies and enjoy your breakfast on the garden lawn – you’re bound to enjoy soaking up the morning sun.

Hotel Ruinas , Cusco

Situated in the real heart of Cusco, Hotel Ruinas is just two blocks from the city’s main square and close to the Santo Domingo Church. Its spacious guestrooms feature traditional handcrafted furniture and free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. But it’s the food here that’s the most highly recommended, with a generous breakfast buffet followed by a la carte lunch and dinner menus. Expect a delicious mix of Peruvian and international cuisine served by a great team of friendly staff.

Tunupa Lodge , Sacred Valley

Centrally located within Ollantaytambo, this elegant hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the Sacred Valley. Set on 5,000-square-metre grounds, consisting of spacious lawns, Incan terraces and gardens, you can expect a quiet and peaceful stay. Each of the guestrooms is equipped with modern amenities including WiFi access and a private bathroom, with panoramic views over Mount Verónica. There’s also a restaurant serving a hearty breakfast buffet and if you make a reservation, you'll find a la carte lunch and dinner menus offering tasty traditional dishes.

Waman Inn, Aguas Calientes

Located on top of a hill just minutes’ walk from Aqua Calientes main square, the Waman Hotel is a rustic charming hotel and the perfect base for those wanting to visit the famous Machu Picchu. Its bright guestrooms feature wood furnishings and include a private bathroom, free WiFi and a flat screen TV. You can dine in the onsite rooftop restaurant and from there go up to the atrium lookout for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and town below, there’s certainly plent of opportunities for you to enjoy the vistas.

Hotel Intiqa, Puno

Packed with local flavour, this modern hotel showcases the best of local Pukara culture. Both the building’s interior and the guestrooms are decorated with Pukara art and icons. The rooms are also well-equipped with modern amenities and feature warm tones to provide a cosy atmosphere. At the onsite Pachamama Restaurant guests can enjoy a la carte regional cuisine as well as drinks made from local herbs such as muña and a delicious Peruvian hot chocolate. With staff that never stop smiling, you can be sure to feel very welcome here.

Hotel Rosario Del Lago Copacabana , Copacabana

Set next to the Titicaca Lake, the Hotel Rosario del Lago offers an excellent location in Copacabana. Its guestrooms are individually decorated to highlight elements of Andean culture and boast lake views. To keep you entertained there’s a games room and a garden where you can enjoy a barbecued meal overlooking the lake. The onsite restaurant also serves local cuisine and boasts a selection of the finest Bolivian wines, so you can look forward to a delightful glass of wine in front of the fireplace after a day’s exploring.

Hotel Rosario La Paz, La Paz

Located at the centre of La Paz's Museum District, the Hotel Rosario is the perfect accommodation for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Bolivian culture. Set within a former colonial building, the beautiful property encompasses a stunning courtyard as well as elegant rooms. Authentic Andean handicrafts cover the walls and beds in each room giving the hotel a touch of tradition that certainly doesn't go amiss. The hotel's restaurant offers a selection of hearty Bolivian dishes, which can be washed down with a glass of local wine. The accommodation is located just 5 minutes on foot from the train station.

Asuncion Palace , Asuncion

Set in a historic building with traditional colonial architecture, the hotel offers rooms with free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Chaco Paraguayo Parks and Asunción Bay.
Asuncion Palace has air-conditioned rooms styled in a warm palette and featuring French windows with floor-to-ceiling curtains. They are equipped with cable TV, minibars and some of them have seating areas. All rooms have private bathrooms with showers.
Guests can expect a full buffet breakfast with regional jams and breads. Room service is available.
The hotel is nearby shops and cafes and 7 blocks from the Panteon Nacional building.

Mercure Iguazu Hotel, Iguazu Falls (Argentina)

Set in the heart of the Iryapu Jungle, this modern hotel offers a great base for exploring the spectacular Iguazu Falls. Spacious guestrooms feature balconies with impressive views of the lagoon and WiFi access is available throughout the property. The restaurant offers an international menu, with a bar serving traditional drinks with touches of local flavors. Perhaps end a day of sightseeing with a dip in the outdoor pool or a rejuvenating treatment at the onsite spa.

Augustos Copacabana Hotel, Rio De Janeiro

Set in the heart of Brazil’s most famous district, the Augustos Copacabana Hotel is just moments from the beach. Each air-conditioned guestroom includes a private bathroom, TV, minibar and safe. An outdoor pool offers guests both a refreshing swim and stunning views of the city. You can dine in the onsite restaurant which offers both a la carte and buffet style service or explore the many bars and restaurants close by.

Life can be unpredictable and we understand that sometimes it’s necessary to change or delay your travel plans. With our LIFETIME DEPOSIT guarantee, you can book our Signature tours safe in the knowledge that if you’re unable to travel, your deposit is fully transferable and will be held for an unlimited time.

Peru Group Tours

Experience the best of Peru with our Signature tours and Handpicked tours that cover the most popular itineraries whilst enjoying the comfort of 3-4 star hotels throughout.

From modern and well-located city hotels to chic jungle lodges, our Signature Peru holidays ensure your accommodation is as memorable as the sites you'll be visiting. And there are plenty of inclusions too with guided touring of the Sacred Valley, Cuzco and its Incan monuments, and the star of the show - Machu Picchu.

Our adventure-style group tours are a fun and social way to explore the delights of Peru. With an average group size of 12, our trips are fully escorted by a tour leader who will be on hand to recommend the best spots for food, shopping and nightly entertainment. We use local public transport and stay in a range of locally-owned accommodation from simple hotels and guesthouses to campsites, home-stays and jungle lodges with plenty of local character, providing an authentic experience whilst in Peru.

Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies to travellers who would like the comfort of their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged, thus avoiding the single person supplement.

If you would like to travel in 2019, please see our Journey Across South America itinerary which runs in reverse, travelling from Rio to Lima.

Handpicked

Iconic Experiences, Local Partners

On our Handpicked range we bring you the most iconic experiences in destinations where you’ll join travellers from other travel brands on your tour, safari or sailing holiday. Collaborating with our carefully handpicked portfolio of local partners, these holidays represent exceptional value and there’ll be plenty of cultural experiences shared with other like-minded travellers.

Group sizes and accommodation standards vary by destination where typical group size is 28 travellers and hotels, boats and safari lodges are of a 3-4 star standard.

Guaranteed Departures

This tour is 100% guaranteed to depart with travellers.

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For all our tours and tailor-made holidays we provide you with a clear categorisation of all hotels we use. The REGIONAL CATEGORY indicates the local rating of each hotel in each respective country. We have also rated each hotel using OUR CATEGORY, which will be in line with generally accepted western hotel grading standards.

SimpleBasic hotels and simple accommodation is a no frills option with an adventurous authentic feel.

StandardStandard accommodation equates to a Western 3-star standard, always featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant.

SuperiorSuperior accommodation equates to a Western 4-star standard, featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant and often a swimming pool and/or a fitness centre.

DeluxeDeluxe accommodation equates to a Western 5-star standard, usually featuring spacious, en-suite rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre and an array of amenities, excellent service and customer care.

LavishLavish accommodation equates to a Western 5-star plus standard - the creme de la creme. Featuring spacious, en-suite rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre and an array of amenities, this accommodation is a cut above the rest. Sheer opulence!